"Never thought I'll be back"- Simone Biles weighs in on competing in Paris after heartbreaking exit at the Tokyo Olympics

Simone Biles opened up on returning to compete in her third consecutive edition of the Olympics after her difficulties during Tokyo 2020. During the latter, the Amerrican withdrew from the finals of several events. citing mental health reasons, and subsequently concluded her campaign prematurely.

The withdrawal brought about a lot of backlash from fans on social media. Biles has been vocal about the fact that the criticism she received after the Tokyo Olympics had a profound impact on her.

It was later revealed that Simone Biles was dealing with 'Twisties', a condition that gymnasts encounter while performing air twists or air-borne maneuvers which cause a lack of connection between the mind and the body. The American spoke about this in an interview with NESN and revealed that after Tokyo 2020, she never believed that she would compete in the Olympics again.

Reflecting on her comeback at the Paris Olympics, she said:

"Just representing the United States, it's bittersweet because I never thought I would be back competing at the Olympic Games but everything that I have gone through and the story that I get to share with the audience and with the fans not just at an Olympic stage but on our touring stage as well. It is truly a blessing, so I'm excited that we have the Gold Over America Tour just to share stories, have representation and so the kids can really resonate with us."

Biles has currently embarked on the 'Gold Over America Tour' with fellow gymnasts that include Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and Joscelyn Roberson among others which would feature 32 arena shows all over the USA.

Simone Biles on her decision to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics

Simone Biles at the Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 10 - Source: Getty

Simone Biles spoke about her decision to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics in a press conference at the Japanese capital. The American gymnast revealed that she decided to focus on her mental health as her utmost priority.

"I have to focus on my mental health. I just think mental health is more prevalent in sports right now. We have to protect our minds and our bodies and not just go out and do what the world wants us to do," she said.

"I don't trust myself as much anymore. Maybe it's getting older. There were a couple of days when everybody tweets you and you feel the weight of the world," she added.

Furthermore, she thanked athletes who spoke up about having similar struggles on such a global stage as the Olympics for being able to take a stand for herself.